Choate Rosemary Hall 333 Christian Street Wallingford, CT

Vol. CXIV · No. VIII Friday, February 26, 2021 thechoatenews.choate.edu

ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL KATHLEEN WALLACE TO RETIRE

By Alexis Lien ’23 special person to make a safe Staff Reporter place for people who have lost trust and faith in this school.” After 39 years at Choate, He added, “I don’t know that Associate Head of School Ms. anyone will ever know how Kathleen Wallace will retire at much she did in that capacity the end of the school year. From and how much we owe her, as teaching to coaching to advis- an institution, for that work.” ing, Ms. Wallace has served in Dean of Students Mr. Mike many roles in her time at the Velez ’00 commended Ms. School. Over the years, she Wallace’s composure and her has been the Dean of Academ- indefatigable work ethic. “She ic Affairs, Science Department has been a source of consis- Head, a science and French tency and reliability in all the teacher, a form dean, and a roles she has served,” he said. coach to both field hockey and “As the school pivoted in sev- basketball. She was appointed eral directions, she has been a to what is now known as the As- steadying force.” sociate Head of School in 2008. Ms. Wallace has long bal- She has played a role in the anced her administrative du- creation of multiple signature ties with those in the class- programs, including the Sci- room. If she isn’t leading ence Research Program (SRP), dissections in her anatomy the Arabic and Middle Eastern classes, she might be advising Studies (AMES) signature aca- day students or students living demic program, and the Envi- at the KEC. ronmental Immersion Program Alua Tulbassova ’21, who (EIP) at the Kohler Environ- studied anatomy and physiolo- mental Center (KEC). gy with Ms. Wallace during the Ms. Wallace said, “It felt real- 2019-2020 school year, said, ly good being impactful, making “She was super encouraging positive changes on the academic in terms of speaking up even program at Choate, in a way that if you’re not one hundred per- still exists today and sets an ex- cent sure of the answer, and I ample for other institutions.” think it helped me in how I ap- In recent years, Ms. Wal- proached all my other classes.” lace has also served as the She went on, “I just genuinely Choate community’s primary felt like she cared.” contact for reports of sexual Many former students de- misconduct. clared her their role model.

Photo courtesy of the Choate Archives Head of School Dr. Alex Ms. Kathleen Walllace has served in multiple roles throughout her 39 years at Choate. Curtis said that it “takes a very See WALLACE, Page 2

School Turns Senior Sledding Tradition Hopeful Eye to Resumes After Three Balmy Years Spring Term Dr. Cohen said that although By Ryan Kim ’23 Choate staff might start receiv- Reporter ing vaccinations sometime in March, the timeline for stu- With the beginning of dents may differ depending on spring term, March 22, quickly their home state and the state approaching, the School’s ad- of Connecticut. Dr. Cohen has ministration has been working communicated with the Con- to formulate a plan for return necticut Department of Public that mimics as closely as pos- Health (CT DPH) regarding the sible the pre-pandemic Choate possibility of giving vaccines on experience while ensuring the campus, but the vaccine supply safety of the community. from CT DPH remains uncer- According to Medical Di- tain. Once vaccinations are ap- rector Dr. Miriam Cohen, the proved, the Health Center may spring term will likely be simi- be able to administer vaccines lar to this school year’s fall and for students in Connecticut. winter terms, with mitigation As the School sought a bal- Photo courtesy of Dey Wallace McKinstry Photo courtesy of Sabrina Kim strategies such as masking, so- ance between campus safety Seniors participated in senior sledding to celebrate 100 days till graduation. The event took place behind the Girls’ JV Soccer field. cial distancing, and handwash- and student life, many tradi- ing in place, but more specific tions this year, such as Hol- ate’s Safe and Sounder plan. opportunity to be outdoors and ing around in the snow with my guidelines will depend on the iday Ball and First Hurrah, By Renee Jiang ’22 Seniors learning remotely were enjoy the snow as a collective friends while surrounded by spring Covid-19 statistics and have moved to a completely Associate Editor also unable to participate. senior class on the 100th day music and laughter. This was trends in Connecticut. After a virtual format over Zoom. The According to Ms. Brown, before graduation. “So many se- the first time most of the senior mandatory quarantine period, School, however, is determined On Friday, February 19, se- “SAGE is not doing any catering so niors are sad that we don’t get to class got together in one specif- students will resume the same to ensure that the traditions niors convened near Gunpowder we ordered local pizza and passed participate in the many school ic time slot, so it was definitely freedoms in the winter term. of senior spring occur in some Creek for the first senior sledding that out ourselves with rubber traditions and senior privileges, a memorable experience.” For instance, after two weeks physical form for the Class of event since 2018. Due to a lack of gloves on, of course. Also, we only so it was really great to have this Ms. Brown echoed this sen- of negative testing on campus, 2021. Dr. Cohen said that, as snow, the senior sledding tradi- handed out 50 sleds at a time so tradition upheld this year,” said timent. “As deans, it was really students within the same fam- long as activities can be held tion was paused for the past two there would not be too much of a Nneoma Iloeje ’21. wonderful to be able to mix with ily unit will be allowed to enter safely and in accordance with years. However, the consistent, backlog on the top of the hill.” Given the new 10:00 p.m. the students and to see them all each other’s dorm rooms with- Choate Covid-19 guidelines, the heavy snow experienced these In a comprehensive set of rules curfew for the winter term, se- enjoying each other and the snow. out masks, and more students usual senior-spring rites like past few weeks have allowed written by Ms. Duckett Ireland, niors were also given the priv- The campus looked beautiful. Six will be allowed in rooms at the Last Hurrah, Garden Party, Se- sixth-form deans Ms. Julia Brown students had to remain six feet ilege of extended curfew until party-size pizzas were demol- same time. In addition, day stu- nior Dance Lessons, and Com- ’83 and Ms. Mb Duckett Ireland apart at all times, only one person 10:40 p.m. After a night of sled- ished in no time! Almost all of the dents will again be allowed to mencement will occur. to bring back the tradition. was allowed on each sled, and no ding in the cold winter air, se- six formers on campus attended.” commute to campus from their This year’s event differed sled chains were permitted. niors were able to enjoy hot piz- homes but will be restricted Ryan Kim may be reached from previous years because of Despite the strict safety za to finish off the event. Anna Renee Jiang may be reached from entering the dorms. at [email protected] health restrictions from Cho- guidelines, students relished the Bonem ’21 said, “I enjoyed play- at [email protected]

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Page 2 || The Choate News Friday, February 26, 2021

GREEN CUP CHALLENGE Community Gathers for Second ADAPTS TO VIRTUAL SETTING Conversation on Pan-Asian Identity By Heidi Li ’23 By Tiffany Xiao ’23 munity. Attendance to conver- guidelines of the first event, add- Reporter Reporter sations in the fall, including ones ing, “It was hard personally to on Black and queer identity, had hear that some took it as me being The Conservation Proctors On February 19, the School been required. The lack of a simi- anti-Asian or not fully supportive (C-Proctors) kicked off their came together over Zoom for a lar stipulation for the February 3 of all identities in our communi- 15th annual energy conserva- Community Conversation on event felt like a microaggression ty.” She promised “to uplift shared tion challenge, the Green Cup Pan-Asian identity. Students to many members of Choate’s conversations and understanding Challenge, on Monday, Febru- and faculty were required to Pan-Asian community. of all identities” on campus. ary 15. Like many events this attend the event. “It rubbed me the wrong way,” Still, Dr. Myers said, not all year, the 2021 Green Cup Chal- The topics discussed includ- said Hugo Chung ‘22. “I think future Community Conversa- lenge has undergone changes to ed questions about whether when the first one wasn’t required, tions will be mandatory, espe- accommodate Covid-19 restric- Pan-Asian-identifying members it sent a certain message to the cially when they begin to occur tions. Rather than hosting the of the community have experi- Asian community at Choate. It felt in person. “When I designed normal four-week challenge, enced increased anti-Asian and a little contrived that the second this program, it was designed to the group compressed the event xenophobia after the onset of one was happening now.” take place in person,” she said. into a single week that ended on the Covid-19 pandemic; wheth- To Sofia Galarza ’23, the chain Anonymously asking and an- Monday, February 22. er asking about people’s names of events made it feel all the more swering questions in real time In past years, each dorm in their native language is of- important for the School to con- is not only logistically difficult has created a Green Cup vid- fensive; and why conversations tinue facilitating Community but fraught with emotional risk. eo emphasizing, often in a Graphic by Yujin Kim/The Choate News about Asian identity often center Conversations. She said, “The “I feel it would be harmful to humorous way, the impor- Following the end of the Green sustainability and new infor- on East Asian ethnicities. reason we have conversations like force people who are being vul- tance of conserving energy and Cup Challenge week, the dorms mation to interested viewers.” Many students and facul- this, because people unknowingly nerable and honest in a space to ways to do so. In an effort to that reduced their energy con- Furthermore, the C-Proc- ty expressed positive feelings do things that are offensive and have to look around at people win prizes and be featured on sumption will win a mug night. tors shifted their focus to vir- about the event. Rhea Shah ’22 that hurt others.” who would rather be anywhere the C-Proctors’ social media, In addition to working tual events and dorm activi- thought the conversation pro- Director of Equity and Inclu- but in that space,” she said. dorms would rally together in on the Green Cup Challenge, ties. One such event was dorm vided a helpful reminder that sion Dr. Rachel Myers has said that Upcoming Community Con- their common room or go into C-Proctors have continued oth- bingo, which aimed to educate “Asia is a continent, and all scheduling the first conversation so versations, which students and fac- students’ rooms to film vari- er projects throughout the year. dorm members on waste man- Asians are not the same.” that it did not overlap with other ulty will be required to attend, in- ous clips such as flipping the The group moved their meet- agement during quarantine. The event follows a Febru- school events — and so that all stu- clude one in March to be centered lights off or turning the heat ings to Zoom, with subcom- The C-Proctors also produced ary 3 Community Conversation dents and faculty could attend it — on Jewish identity and another in down. With Covid-19 restric- mittees working in different a video showing students what on the same topic, although at- was “immensely challenging.” May focusing on mental health. tions, however, dorms had to breakout rooms. Muñoz said, goes into recycling, compost, tendance at the first event was Dr. Myers said that she “com- get creative. Library, for ex- “For the most part, technology and trash. optional, a fact that did not go pletely understood” the pain some Tiffany Xiaomay be reached ample, produced a video in the makes it easier to plan meet- In the fall, the C-Proctor unnoticed by the Choate com- community members felt by the at [email protected] mode of the reality-TV show ings and share notes to plan outreach group was even able “The Bachelor” with individual for C-Proctor events.” She con- to host an in-person event for interviews to maintain social tinued, “The meetings held in faculty children to teach the distancing guidelines. Zoom format are pretty much basics of sustainability. The Additionally, to provide al- seamless. It’s been a great ex- workshop centered on waste Wallace Announces Retirement ternatives to a dorm video, the perience getting to work with management and gave children Continued from Page 1 school was female STEM teach- Wallace says that she plans to C-Proctors encouraged dorms different head C-Proctors and an opportunity to plant seeds ers and having Ms. Wallace be take some time away from the to create graphics and artwork helping educate the communi- in a used plastic container. Aarthi Katakam ’21 said, “Ms. such an advocate for women in business of boarding school to show in their videos. Arch- ty, despite it being virtual.” The C-Proctors plan to con- Wallace’s anatomy class was the STEM and kids in STEM was life to relax with her family, bold constructed a graphic The C-Proctors have also tinue to host dorm challenges best class I’ve taken at Choate.” really nice.” catch up on reading, and pick featuring Angry Birds yelling been uploading information to and other events. Looking to the She recalled an evening chatting As Ms. Wallace prepares to up soccer again. at people practicing unsustain- their social media platforms, spring term, the annual Hydro casually with Ms. Wallace at the bid farewell to Choate, she says “I love Choate, and I love able habits. especially the Choate C-Proc- Cup Challenge will be aimed at KEC. “She really listened to my she will miss the students who working here,” she said. “I’ll Sofia Muñoz ’23, a C-Proc- tor Instagram (@choatecproc- educating community members thoughts about a future career have shown incredible dedi- miss the place, but I’m looking tor and a judge for the video chal- tors). According to Muñoz, on water conservation. in lab science, and she was very cation to their studies and the forward to what comes next.” lenge winner, said, “We decide the media subgroup “has been encouraging,” Katakam said. faculty and staff who have dis- based on creativity, humor, and striving hard to make engaging Heidi Li may be reached “Something I lacked growing played tremendous excitement Alexis Lien may be reached overall education of the topic.” and simple posts that promote at [email protected] up in elementary and middle for their work on campus. Ms. at [email protected]

ABBY LU ELECTED STUDENT BODY Head of Student and Academic Life Position PRESIDENT to Replace Associate Head of School

By Yoyo Zhang ’24 very different from last year’s. By Sabrina Wang ’23 Dean of Students, the Dean of faculty and staff were given the the search committee will write Reporter A “virtual format provides can- Staff Reporter Faculty, the Director of Equity opportunity to share feedback a job description and identify didates more options to show- and Inclusion, and the Director of on the new position and the viable candidates. On February 8, Choate held case their skills and goals, but With the announcement of College Counseling, while Head of search process with Dr. Curtis. “I’m hoping we find some- its first-ever fully virtual Stu- in-person presentations can be Associate Head of School Ms. School Dr. Alex Curtis connects The committee will work one who has commitment to dent Council election. In pre- more engaging with the voters,” Kathleen Wallace’s retirement, with outside groups such as par- with an outside executive the same values we’ve estab- vious years, students not only he said. Choate has created a new role, ents, alumni, and trustees. One search firm, Storbeck Search. lished as an institution. Some- listened to candidates’ speech- The election’s virtual for- the Head of Student and Academ- of the future Head of Student and “Storbeck does a lot of the dig- one [who], when going through es in-person in the Paul Mellon mat also led to some technical ic Life, to replace the Associate Academic Life’s main goals will be ging, recruiting, and outreach the process, develops a level of Arts Center (PMAC) or Colony issues; soon-to-be-graduating Head of School position. to increase the speed with which to a number of different places love and appreciation for the Hall, but they also filled out seniors, who traditionally do The Head of Student and Ac- the School responds to campus is- to help find the candidate you School and is ready to work to their ballots in the dining hall. not vote in student council elec- ademic Life will form a bridge sues, particularly when Dr. Curtis want,” said Dr. Myers. make positive change,” said Mr. This year, however, both parts tions, were able to cast votes. between the administration and is traveling. The administration chose Velez. “They’re coming into the of the election procedure were “The link was sent out to all students. “Administrators will The search for candidates to Storbeck Search for its repu- role on the front end of a strate- conducted online to accommo- Choate students, and some peo- have the autonomy that we have fill the new position has already tation for identifying a diverse gic plan, so hopefully they will date remote learners and social ple reported voting more than always had and at the same time begun. A search committee com- pool of candidates in their bring an open-mindedness to distancing guidelines. Follow- once,” said Lucas. “However, in have a direct point of contact who posed of Dr. Curtis, Mr. Velez, searches. “They have a prov- the role and offer support in a ing the 36-hour voting period, the final count, every student is going to be given the agency to Director of Equity and Inclusion en track record if you look at way that will enhance the over- Abby Lu ’22 and Gavin Doak only received up to one vote per make decisions for the best inter- Dr. Rachel Myers, and HPRSS the statistical analysis of the all experience of students, fac- ’22 were elected President and candidate, and seniors’ votes est of the School,” said Dean of teacher Ms. Tiffany Rivera, as number of BIPOC candidates ulty, and staff.” Vice-President, respectively. were not counted.” Students Mr. Mike Velez ’00. well as members of the Board that they put forward and their Dr. Myers added, “You have Despite the challenges Some members of the com- The primary role of the new of Trustees, will meet prior to hiring percentages,” said Mr. to have someone with quality posed by virtual voting, there munity believe that seniors position will be to work with the spring break. Two weeks ago, Velez. Together, Storbeck and leadership skills and a confi- were some benefits that came should always be allowed to vote dence in decision making. You with the new format. “Online in the election for president and want someone who has trust in voting resulted in a higher turn- vice president. “Having seniors themself and values collabora- out rate because it’s more con- as part of the process makes tion, who is a strong leader but venient,” said Lu. “People don’t it more objective and less of a also a flexible leader.” have to walk to the dining hall popularity contest,” said Han- Because the search for Head anymore.” nah McMurtrie ’21. of Student and Academic Life Also, for some candidates, On the other hand, Lu re- will not conclude until the fall of sending in a prerecorded vid- mained skeptical that seniors’ 2021, Dean of Faculty Ms. Katie eo was less nerve-racking than would vote sincerely in the elec- Levesque will serve as the inter- standing behind a lectern in tion determining leadership for im Head of Student and Academ- front of the student body. “Pub- the following year. She said, ic Life for the next school year. An lic speaking can be intimidating “Since the result has no effect interim Dean of Faculty to tem- for many,” Lu said. “Hopefully, on the seniors, they might turn porarily replace Ms. Levesque that video aspect took away the to cast joke ballots that do not has not yet been named. intimidation.” benefit the community.” “I’m excited to learn some For Lu, however, interact- Lucas predicted, “Since we new things, do some new things, ing with the crowd and feed- have the data this year to see and continue to contribute to ing off its energy inspires her how the senior class voted, it Choate,” said Ms. Levesque. public speaking. Likewise, Ula might be really interesting to see Ms. Levesque does not yet Lucas ’21, the current Student if our votes would have swayed have specific goals for next Body President, found it “quite the results in a significant man- year. She said, “We are in a awkward” to record her speech- ner. Depending on how that data strategic planning process, and es throughout the year because ends up looking, there might be I will be taking direction from there was no way to tell how the a stronger case for giving se- the strategic priorities that the audience was receiving the con- niors the right to vote.” School has set.” tent. ToMino Sun ’22 found this Yoyo Zhang may be reached Sabrina Wang may be reached year’s voting experience to be at [email protected] Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News at [email protected] Friday, February 26, 2021 The Choate News || Page 3

By Adrienne Chacón ’22, Linda Phan ’22, and Eva Li ’24 Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe / The Choate News Associate Editor, Associate Editor, and Reporter

Over the past few decades, Wallingford has evolved from a rural farm town into a home for many THE TIMEKEEPER small, family-owned businesses. From barbers and flower shops to restaurants and breweries, Walling- Repairing everything from pendulum clocks to ford is now recognized by local residents for its wide range of unique establishments, all of which con- wristwatches to antique music boxes, The Timekeeper tribute to a tight-knit community. Behind the doors of each small business lies a story of how ordinary has attracted customers from around the world. The people transformed their passions into livelihoods. shop’s founder and owner, Mr. Garry Craig, has ded- icated 36 years to his fascinating trade.

“I started off as a collector of an open-minded BEAUMONT FARMS antique clocks — probably 35 or 36 thinker in this Mr. Billy Beaumont years ago. I majored in mechani- profession. Even is the current owner of cal engineering in college, and I though I’ve been Photo courtesy of Nick Westcott Beaumont Farms, a fam- worked for Alcoa as a mechanical doing this for ily-run business with a engineer for about five years. Then, nearly 36 years, every great once in for 24 or 25 years now, and I keep vegetable and dairy farm, somewhere in the back of my mind, a while, I run into something new receiving a lot of reference materi- an on-site farmer’s mar- something made me want to figure that I’ve never encountered. It’s a als and literature from them every ket, and multiple green- out what makes these old antique lot of commitment, a lot of tenaci- other month, and I keep all of it as houses. The farm is a clocks work. What makes them ty. There’s been many times when a resource library. I’ve also been well-established Walling- keep running and shining? I lay in bed thinking about a tiny getting people sending and mailing ford business, supplying I ended up buying my first an- piece, and then all of a sudden, a me clocks and watches all over the the community with pro- tique clock probably 36 years ago, brainstorm comes to me. When I world and the country — like Cali- duce since 1899. and it didn't work. So, I cleaned go into the shop the next day, I try fornia, Massachusetts, Michigan. A Photo by Trista LeBlanc-Serbyn/The Choate News and serviced it, and now it’s been it, and it works! lot of it is the personal satisfaction I “This farm has always been trade is tractor repair. While the truck with the reindeer on running nicely ever since. It kind of I’ve also been a dues-paying get from my customers when they here, but my great-grandfather other kids are riding bikes, it. Now we’ve branched out launched a new career for me. You member of the National Associa- pick up the timepiece that hasn’t also came to it from the Beau- you’re riding a tractor in this into pretty big displays on top have to be a real problem solver and tion of Watch and Clock Collectors run for a lot of years.” mont Dairy Farm from the oth- family. Since it is a family busi- of the truck. Last year was er side of town, [which] had ness, I took over the farm when a Charlie Brown Christmas. been started in the 1870s. All my father passed away and have We’ve been doing ’em all, and farming has got its moments — run it ever since. We’re not sure we’re already working on next DREISSEN ELECTRIC either too cold, too warm, per- where the farm is going from year. It’s the public that makes Mr. Gary Dreissen learned the electric trade from his father, and now he has worked as an electrician fect weather, you never know. here, but we’re planning on me the happiest: the smiling for the past 35 years. He and his crew answer house calls, fix power outages, and do other repair work. We lost most of our greenhous- farming as long as we can. faces, little kids going out to es to Hurricane Sandy in 2013; Something I started doing get their first flower to plant, “My father was an electri- it’s your name, your business, er. It cuts down on lost time for you never know what’s going to was Christmas displays. The or people having the best time cian, so after school, I used to but it’s also a responsibility. If when you’re doing a job. be your obstacle of the year. Christmas events have gone at the Christmas corner. See- work on different jobs with you’re an employee, you show Electrical work does change Me taking over the farm was on for the last 16 or 17 years. ing people having a good time him as I grew up. As I got old- up nine to five, you go home — with the different national and just one of those things. My real It started with Santa driving is my biggest joy.” er, I went to trade school at you don’t get called in the mid- electrical codes. We go to school Wilcox Tech in Meriden and dle of the night for a service call for that and get updated every went through the apprentice or on the weekends. That’s the year — who knows what the new program. I decided I liked difference between working for product ten years from now is NEW ENGLAND CIDER COMPANY electrical work after I went to someone and being the owner. gonna be? I’ve been fortunate Mr. Miguel Galarraga is trade school, so I went on my Things have also evolved a over the years that most of my the owner of New England Ci- own and started my company lot better for communication business is within a ten mile ra- der Company — a Wallingford around 1985. I’ve been in busi- between me and my employ- dius of Wallingford. I stay local brewery, bar, and tasting room ness for about 35 years serving ees; years ago, you’d have to a lot because we have enough that sells beer and hard cider to the Wallingford area. speak to a part supplier in the service and business work right bars, restaurants, and package Our type of work is a lot morning on their home phone in this area. stores throughout Connecticut. of service work. Something because they didn’t have a work For the work we do, our breaks, you call me, we come phone. Even a customer would name’s on the door for workman- “My partner at the time out, we diagnose it, and we be calling you on a home an- ship, so we feel responsible. If and I started making beer first. fix the problem. Running a swering machine, so it took a lot things don’t get done, we have to Then, someone gave us an idea business and being the owner longer. Nowadays, with phones finish them and show up on time, that we could make hard cider is rewarding in the sense that and the internet, it’s a lot easi- because it’s our neck out there.” with apples. On a homebrew scale, we didn’t want to spend a lot of money on equipment, so this seemed like a feasible Photo courtesy of @NewEnglandCider on Twitter TATA’S RESTAURANT route to not spend a ton of not have been cider, but I was little more apple-y, a little more money; it just kind of spiraled definitely looking at getting sweet. So, we changed some of Tata’s Restaurant has been serving Wallingford diners au- into what it is now. out of being a mechanic. We our formulas to suit our custom- thentic Puerto Rican cuisine for more than 16 years. Owner and There was a lot that we took some business classes at ers’ needs. We’re always evolving chef Mr. Efrain Nieves moved to the U.S. in 1989, when he was learned in the beginning. We the University of Hartford and and trying to change with the de- 13, and opened his restaurant after graduating from the Porter took some courses because fine-tuned our cider skills. mand that’s being placed on us. School of Engineering Design, class of 1972. The restaurant’s at- neither myself nor my partner We started off making cider There’s ups and downs to mosphere nearly always includes a live band, a DJ, or another at the time had a business de- that we were really happy with being a small business. In this form of entertainment. gree — we were both mechan- and that we really enjoyed drink- industry, having customers ics. What drove my interest in ing. It was dry, more like wine come in and enjoy the product business ownership was that I or champagne-style cider. Cus- that you’re making has defi- “The dream came from lov- and found Quinnipiac Street. always wanted to do something tomers weren’t so crazy about nitely been the most rewarding ing the food and loving to cook. I came here and immediately Photo courtesy of Tata's Restaurant else. Ten years ago, it might it — they wanted something a part about this business.” Most of the dishes we create here fell in love with it. That was 16 because they give back to me, come from my grandmother, years ago. Now, I’ve moved to too. We hold fundraisers for the who taught me how to cook Center Street, so I’m a couple people in different parts of the Tapas-style cuisine. She took me hundred feet away from the world, like Puerto Rico, when it WORDS ON WOOD under her wings and showed me restaurant, and I plan to stay suffered from an earthquake. Founded in 2016 by for- some of the techniques we use here for a while. Covid-19 is one of the hard- mer school teacher Ms. Jackie here in Spanish cuisine, so it’s Wallingford has been a est things that we have had Valentines, Words on Wood is pretty good. She was the reason blessing since I got here and to deal with so far — trying to well-known for its sign parties why I wanted to open a restau- opened the restaurant, so I stay open and stay safe. I’ve and DIY workshops that pro- rant, so I named it Tata – which do call Wallingford my sec- opened this restaurant for 16 to vide an unforgettable bonding means ‘granny’ in Spanish. ond home. The people here are 17 years, and I’ve learned that experience for friends and fam- I actually came from New great. They are very support- everything is a challenge — but ilies. Ms. Valentines has worked York, and when I was look- ive of you, and I like that it’s a dealing with this pandemic has with her family to share their ing in a newspaper one day community. I love to give out been the hardest thing yet.” custom-made wood products through not only their local storefront but also online retail WALLINGFORD FLOWER SHOPPE and other out-of-state locations. Mr. Salvatore Greco and his wife Ms. Ann Greco opened the Wallingford Flower Shoppe in 1950. Since

Photo courtesy of Words on Wood Mr. Greco’s passing in 2007, his son, Mr. Salvatore Gre- “Words on Wood actually der something custom-made, It’s very much a family busi- co Jr., has taken over with the hopes of continuing his started by accident. In 2016, or you can make something by ness. My daughter works as our father’s legacy. when my daughter moved to yourself at the studio. Now, due creative director, and my hus- “Each order, each floral de- sympathy flow- China to teach English for a to the pandemic, we also offer band is her carpenter. We live sign — whether it is wedding, ers. We are very year, I was just super sad and DIY kits that people can buy in Wallingford, and we are very sympathy, everyday, birthday, family and com- missed her, so I decided that I and make themselves at home. much rooted in our community. anniversary, or baby shower munity-oriented. wanted to do something to keep As a former teacher, I have the Every year, we always love to do — is handmade from the begin- We know most of me busy. After I made a wood skills to be able to instruct cus- things to give back. We partici- ning to the end. That has not our customers by Photo courtesy of Wallingford Flower Shoppe sign for another girl who was tomers step-by-step through the pate in all the town-wide events, changed at all over the years. sight or voice when they call. ing that they are getting exact- also away, I fell in love with the process. Apart from the many including the holiday stroll. We really are a part of the Our customer service staff here ly what they had visualized in process. I created more signs, parties that we’ve hosted, the We hire Santa to come in every tight-knit community of Wall- can get an idea on what the their minds and that they got and people’s friends eventual- fundraisers have always meant year, and we do free photos, ingford, and it means a whole event is — the ballpark budget, great service and great value. ly started asking to buy them. so much to me. I love them be- giveaways, and food and drinks. lot to us to provide our prod- likes or dislikes of the custom- Five or ten years from now, I Months later, we had a lit- cause it’s always so wonderful to We’re always very involved, and ucts and services. er or the recipient — and rec- see the store exactly where it is tle sign party at somebody’s have people come in to have fun even though we now have par- We have done three genera- ommend something that will now, doing exactly what we’re house, and the very next day, I and enjoy the process, but then ties in other states and places, tions of weddings, three genera- be appropriate for that partic- doing now: giving great cus- had six parties booked! we get to write a big check to the and hope to keep growing, we tions of recitals and proms, and, ular customer. tomer service, providing the Sometimes people come charity organization, and that’s love being here in Wallingford. unfortunately, two or three fu- When our customers leave, freshest flowers available, and in and buy signs; you can or- very, very rewarding. We love our town.” nerals for the same families with I want them to have that feel- offering great value.”

The authors may be reached at [email protected]; [email protected]; and [email protected] Page 4 || The Choate News Friday, February 26, 2021

EDITORIAL Out with the old... The Choate News

VOL. CXIV th 114 Masthead NO. 8

Claire Yuan ’21 Niki L. Gummadi ’21 Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor

School News Local News Opinions Esther An ’21 Peter DiNatale ’21 Rachel Pittman ’22 JeeHwan Kim’21 Amanda Li ’21 Bianca Rosen ’21

Features Arts & Leisure Sports Henrik Torres ’22 Tony Lee ’21 Greer Goergen ’21

Photography Layout Graphics Gretchen MacLean ’22 Laura Jiang ’21 Sesame Gaetsaloe ’21

Social Media Adviser Sabrina Kim ’21 Business Mr. Mike Peed Madeleine Dubrinsky ’22 Bella Capuano ’21 June Lu ’22 Ho Jin Jang ’21

Online Video Nico Campbell ’21 Lauren Cussler ’22 Multimedia Claire Fu ’22 Declan Murphy Zink ’21 Julia Alkhayer ’23 Sam Anastasio ’23 Staff Reporters Sabahat Rahman ’21 Bo Goergen ’22 Alexis Lien ’23 Natarsha Yan ’21 Naomi Fleisch ’22 Audrey Lim ’23 Joy Bang ’22 Trista LeBlanc-Serbyn ’22 Sabrina Wang ’23 Wesley Boatwright ’22 Sam Anastasio ’23 Melody Qian ’24 Photos courtesy of Jones Day, KSAT, U.S. News, MarketWatch, CNN, Labor Notes, Forbes, WTNH, KPBS, CBS, and Zoom Harry Chen ’22 Begum Gokmen ’23 Cassatt Boatwright ’24 e, the 114th mast- es and female identity in athlet- As our community became in- Our goal at The Choate News Brian Harder ’23 head, inherited The ics. While we couldn’t report on creasingly aware of the hateful sys- has always been to inform and em- /choatenews @choatenews @choatenews WChoate News just live arts performances, our Arts tems both within and outside of the power. This mission has never felt Email us: [email protected] || Call us: (203) 697-2070 || Find us: thechoatenews.choate.edu as the Covid-19 pandemic shut- page published pieces showcas- Choate bubble, we sought to use so important. In today’s combative tered U.S. businesses and schools, ing how Choate’s artists practiced reporting and opinions writing as world, “fake news” and “fake sci- forcing people into isolation. their craft from home. Our Opin- a form of activism. When George ence” deprive us of shared facts, As a young, inexperienced ions pages highlighted students’ Floyd was murdered by a police- eroding at our hope to find com- ...in with the News masthead, we were intimidated by experiences and opinions con- man last May, the world finally mon ground and build consensus. the task before us. We had to trans- cerning the status of our campus began to confront the racism our But these hopes remain alive, and, form our publication process to a and world in the midst of social society is built on. Part of the core over time, they will strengthen. virtual setting. Instead of crowd- and political upheaval. Although of this hatred lies in journalism’s These challenges, in fact, create an The Choate News ing into the Newsroom on our first our Features reporters couldn’t history of pushing minority voices opportunity for journalism to try Tuesday layout night, we fumbled sit down with subjects, we sought into the shadows to illuminate the again to fulfill its unwavering mis- VOL. CXIV onto Zoom from living rooms pandemic stories from students straight, white, male experience. sion — to inform, to inspire, and to th 115 Masthead NO. 8 across the world. Once the initial across the globe. Even from thou- As journalists documenting this drive us all to be better citizens. shock of our new situation passed, sands of miles away, our Local moment in history, we considered Although this year has been Henrik A. Torres ’22 Rachel R. Pittman ’22 we started to realize the immense News reporters managed to keep it our responsibility to reverse one of the most challenging that a Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor opportunity we had as journalists up with Wallingford businesses. this pattern of journalistic white Choate News masthead has ever in this unconventional year. As we Reporting on School News was supremacy. So, we focused on ex- faced, we are proud to have been School News Local News Opinions Praj Chirathivat ’22 Adrienne Chacón ’22 Jessica Wu ’22 brainstormed story ideas for each challenging when Choate’s cam- panding the diversity of voices we a part of journalism this year. We Renee Jiang ’22 Anika Midha ’22 issue, we imagined how our paper pus was devoid of school meet- were publishing and tried to recruit hope that this year lays the foun- would look in the School’s Archives ings, weekend events, and club writers from all corners of the Cho- dation for a new era of journalism, Features Arts & Leisure Sports Kate Bailey ’22 Angel Guo ’22 Richard Chen ’22 in 20, 50, or 100 years. meetings, yet we took advantage ate community. We reported on one in which media outlets walk Instead of covering games of the opportunity to document Choate’s inclusion initiatives and party lines, acknowledge nuance, Photography Layout Graphics and matches on the Sports page, this remarkable time in the even ran opinions pieces confront- and lean into persuasion both at Tiffany Xiao ’23 Yujin Kim ’23 Linda Phan ’22 we ran articles on virtual practic- School’s history. ing the School on its own prejudice. Choate and beyond.

Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe/The Choate News ear Choate, ear Choate, Well, it’s been quite a year, to say the least. When I was asked to write a Thank you for allowing me to serve you this year as Student Council President. Dreflection on my time as Student Council President, I immediately dug D As cheesy as this may sound, I feel the need to reiterate the immense honor I feel through my Google Drive to find the campaign speech I delivered last winter. in representing you. Thank you to all my friends, teachers, and fellow council members As I read through the document, memories almost too foreign to believe rushed for the love, care, and support over these past two years. After the election results were through my mind: I was addressing the whole school from the podium in Colony announced, I was barraged by congratulating emails, joyous exclamations, and heartfelt Hall, running out of the packed auditorium to sell Neil’s Donuts, being crushed by expressions of trust and faith. To me, the role of President is a chance to make a tangible friendly hugs and handshakes after winning the election, and finishing my time and lasting change for this community, to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to causes im- as a representative by organizing food vendors to bring to campus in the spring. portant to me, and to achieve cultural unity. Just a few weeks later, I said goodbye to the friends staying with me for the ex- My agenda for my time as President is already packed! This year, I hope to create a tended break as they boarded flights to London and Korea. As I fumbled on my com- more connected and inclusive Choate community. Through school-wide listening sessions puter trying to figure out how to create a Zoom meeting, I quickly realized that the and monthly newsletters, I plan to make the Student Council more transparent. I want next three terms would look a lot different than how I had imagined. our community culture and curriculum to become more inclusive of all of the people who Although this Student Council has never met in person, I am so grateful for make Choate special — including our ABM, SAGE, and Community Safety staff members. each member and their dedication to the community. Over spring break, before The efforts toward inclusion have been spearheaded by the Equity and Inclusion Office they took office, the Council spent hours over Zoom advocating for a switch to (shoutout to Dr. Rachel Myers and Community Conversations!), and I hope to extend that Pass/D/Fail grading. During the spring term, the Council hit the ground running, effort in the form of student-led Dialogues for Understanding. Lastly, I hope to see Cho- penning weekly form emails and starting a monthly student artwork showcase to ate destigmatize mental health issues. Our council this year has brought about Monthly connect us remotely. Representatives thought outside the box to bring students Mindfulness, and I hope to continue building a school culture that acknowledges con- together, planning a combination of virtual and in-person form events, hosting a front vulnerabilities through conversations and increased accessibility to mental health quarantine Dorm Olympics, and launching initiatives like Dialogues for Under- resources such as counseling. standing and Monthly Mindfulness. Through implementing these changes, I want to see you — the talented, motivated, and inspir- We worked with the Choate Programming Union to develop a Student Council ing you — continue excelling in your pursuits, knowing that the Student Council has your back. website that will launch in the spring, and we passed a proposal to create a Choate Here’s hoping that my speech and general demeanor have convinced you of my ap- Student-Alumni Networking platform. To address issues of equity and inclusion, we proachability. Throughout my tenure, I hope to project an air of honesty so that you (and passed initiatives to expand all-gender housing, establish a Diversity, Equity, and I) can recognize my flaws, misgivings, and insecurities alongside my optimism and con- Inclusion (DEI) student committee, and add pronouns and professional titles to the fidence. I’ve found that the deepest connections come with the understanding of one an- faculty directory. Finally, we finished the year by passing an initiative that allows other’s vulnerabilities, and I hope to establish such a relationship with you, dear Choate. students to keep their iPads after graduation. You’ll see me around campus wearing sandals with socks, a long skirt over my pajama While I am incredibly proud of everything we have accomplished, I want to pants, holding a cup of Starbucks Doubleshot Energy coffee from the school store, stress- leave you with one final message before I leave office: Each and every one of you ing over an imminent deadline, or blabbering on about the latest song release by J-Pop has the power to make change. I have served on the student council for three years artist Yonezu Kenshi. I will show you my authentic self in the hopes that you will trust me and have cherished every moment that you have entrusted me to represent you. with yours, and dare to be authentic in this school we all call home. Still, in my opinion, some of the most important things I have done for our com- Remember, the ability to implement change does not end with the Student Council. munity were not initiatives developed over the Council’s one-hour, weekly Zoom Throughout my time at Choate, I have seen change manifest in an effervescent concerto calls. Rather, they were the grass-roots initiatives championed by students who performance, an impassioned dance performance, a late-night conversation with a stressed dedicated their time and resources to support their peers. friend, a wave to a stranger on the path, and more. Small actions like these touch people’s The only thing that stands between you and change on this campus is turning hearts, sometimes even more so than paper waffle cups for the dining hall or a changed din- your everyday conversations into action. Even just one student armed with an ner schedule for the winter term. Whatever it is, I hope that you will learn to dye this fabric idea can enact change. The best advice I have ever received was, “You are crazy. of our school a shade of your choosing. If you envision a change, reach out to your teachers, But that’s exactly why you might be able to make this happen.” classmates, and other members of the Student Council. Don’t be afraid to reach out to me if So, do not be afraid to try. If you have an idea, talk to your Student Council repre- you require my assistance; I am just a phone call, an email, or a shout-across-Mem-field away. sentatives, teachers, advisers, friends, and figure out where to start. Surround yourself My ears, heart, and social media direct messages are open for you, 24/7. It does not with a group of committed people, break down your idea into actionable steps, and matter if they are ideas, suggestions, comments, criticisms, or your favorite meme; if they send a few emails. Before you know it, you may just accomplish the impossible. are coming from you, I welcome them. You are all brilliant, passionate, and dedicated people, and I know you are just For you, I will dedicate my heart. I am always in your service, not only as your Student a little hard work away from making Choate an even better place. Body President, but as your classmate and friend. With much love, the best of luck, and warmest regards, Sincerely, Ula Lucas Abby

Ula Lucas is a sixth-former from New Haven. She may be reached at [email protected] Abby Lu is a fifth-former from Hong Kong. She may be reached at [email protected] Friday, February 26, 2021 The Choate News || Page 5

Military Coup in Myanmar Threatens the Global Democratic Order

By Anika Midha ’22 pro-democratic reforms. The Associate Editor Obama administration lifted many sanctions near the end of 2016 be- On February 1, Myanmar’s cause of Myanmar’s evident prog- military, the Tatmadaw, detained ress toward democracy as a result hundreds of civilian government of Ms. Suu Kyi’s leadership. officials and seized control of the Now, the Biden administra- government, declaring a state tion is considering reestablish- of emergency. The leader of the ing sanctions on Myanmar in National League for Democracy response to the coup. National (NLD) and a Nobel Peace Prize Security Adviser Jake Sullivan laureate Aung San Suu Kyi was said, “We are reviewing the pos- among the civilian leaders de- sibility of a new executive order, tained on an unfounded charge of and we are also looking at spe- violating import and export laws. cific targeted sanctions, both The military government, led by on individuals and on entities Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, controlled by the military that will remain in power for the dura- enrich the military.” tion of the year-long state of emer- The coup in Myanmar is a test gency in accordance with Article of President Joe Biden’s commit- 417 of the Myanmar Constitution. ment to democracy. Biden has Myanmar is home to many pledged to promote human rights religious and ethnic minorities. internationally. The coup in Myan- The military takeover not only mar is a threat to its citizens’ — in threatens the livelihood of per- particular minorities’ — well-being secuted minorities throughout and the country’s political stability. the country, but also the coun- There are many things the try’s transition from a military U.S. could do to help, starting dictatorship to a functioning de- Photo courtesy of BBC News with convincing Asian countries, mocracy. The international com- In Myanmar, tens of thousands of citizens crowd the streets, protesting the military-led coup. especially China, to condemn the munity needs to unite in their re- the Rohingya Muslims. Daniel What’s more, Ms. Suu Kyi’s lead- NLD’s leadership as a direct threat of the Tatmadaw and called on actions of the Tatmadaw. U.S. sponse to the coup and condemn Sullivan, an advocate for human ership is a safeguard against hu- to their authority and claimed the military leaders to immediately trade with Myanmar amounts to such a grave abuse of power. rights at Refugees International, man rights violations and religious election results were fraudulent release all detainees within hours approximately $1.4 billion, which Although Myanmar has alter- told Vox, “The military is respon- and ethnic persecution. without any evidence. of the event. China, however, did pales in comparison to China’s nated between being a military and sible for genocide against the Ro- Although the NLD was trium- Tensions escalated when the not take such a strong stance — trade with Myanmar, which was civilian government since 1949, the hingya and other severe human phant again in the 2020 elections, military launched a coup, detain- the nation has long held a policy of $17 billion in 2019. Ultimately, Tatmadaw has always maintained rights abuses against other ethnic their campaign tactics resulted ing civilian leaders, shutting off noninterference regarding other the U.S. needs to pressure China significant political power, sup- minorities, including the Rakh- in an uproar from the military. the internet in major cities, and countries’ domestic affairs. to use its heavy economic sway in pressing any dissidents and plung- ine, Kachin, [and] Shan.” Ms. Suu Kyi’s campaign largely cutting off all flights. The U.S.’s response was not Myanmar to dissolve the Tatmad- ing Myanmar into poverty. Ms. Suu Kyi’s victory in the involved restricting the military’s International response to surprising. From 1962 to 2011, aw and restore peace. Many human rights advocates 2015 democratic elections led to role in government, and her par- the coup has varied. The Biden the United States, along with oth- have voiced their concern for the the formation of a civilian govern- ty’s victory catalyzed a series of administration, along with the er nations, imposed sanctions on Anika Midha is a fifth-former from religious and ethnic minorities ment, signifying a definitive step restrictive reforms. The Tatmad- European Union and the United Myanmar in response to human Singapore. She may be reached persecuted in Myanmar, such as towards democracy in Myanmar. aw viewed Ms. Suu Kyi and the Nations, condemned the actions rights violations and to promote at [email protected]

INEQUALITY DRIVES GLOBAL W i n t e r S t o r m R a va g e s M i d w e s t , R e n e w i n g C l i m a t e C o n c e r n s By Renee Jiang ’22 but rather a culmination of swer highlights the larger glob- VACCINE DISTR IBUTION Associate Editor America’s long history of cli- al trend of governments and mate change denial. To fully corporations constantly prior- As Winter Storm Uri understand the roots of this itizing economic concerns over wrought havoc in the American crisis, we must examine its environmental ones. midwest, entire power grids connections to climate change. “The extreme weather events shut down, and states like Texas Research indicates that that we’re experiencing this week faced an unprecedented crisis. global warming caused by across the central, southern, and Tuesday, February 16 marked man-made greenhouse gas now the eastern United States do the coldest day in North Texas emissions played a huge role yet again demonstrate to us that in 72 years, with towns in the in this fierce winter storm that climate change is real, and it's Dallas-Fort Worth area reach- highlighted the brittleness of happening now, and we’re not ing an astonishing minus two many states’ infrastructure. adequately prepared for it,” said degrees fahrenheit. “The current conditions in White House Homeland Security These extreme weather Texas are historical, certainly Adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall. conditions triggered wide- generational,” said Judah Co- Weatherizing existing in- spread blackouts across an un- hen, Director of Seasonal Fore- frastructure and implementing prepared Texas, overwhelming casting at Atmospheric and more advanced technology of- the state’s weak infrastructure Environmental Research, to ten comes at a high cost, and designed to withstand only The Guardian. “But this can’t most state governments and mild temperatures. Millions be hand-waved away as if it’s energy corporations have no in- of Texans, who have gone days entirely natural. This is hap- centive to reinforce infrastruc- without power, some without pening not in spite of climate ture. As our environmental water, are calling for relief as change. It’s in part due to cli- crisis escalates, climate-linked hospitals desperately attempt mate change.” disasters will only intensify to conserve their resourc- A global rise in greenhouse and — like Winter Storm Uri — es. Public officials and utility gas emissions has increased the cause many severe fallouts. workers continue to struggle to frequency and intensity of heat The existential threat of support affected regions. waves, causing sudden strato- climate change on many com- The severity of these chal- spheric warming. As a result, munities will not go away until lenges have already caused the jet stream, a barrier be- we make direct efforts to re- the Biden administration to tween the Arctic and the south- duce energy consumption and approve federal emergency ern hemisphere, is weakening. spread sustainable energy pro- Graphic by Sesame Gaetsaloe /The Choate News declaration requests from Tex- This allows the freezing air and duction. To limit greenhouse By Maggie McCabe ’22 vaccines to lower and middle-in- tion rates. Yet, Israel has only as, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. high winds of the polar vortex gas emissions and lower tem- Opinions Writer come countries. COVAX expects provided 5,000 doses to Pales- Ranging from frozen power to escape into southern regions, peratures, experts believe that to distribute 2.3 billion doses in tine, which has a population of plants to iced natural gas wells causing episodes of bitter frost communities need to localize Around the globe, nations 2021, with almost 80% going to almost five million. This is one to hundreds of cases of carbon in conventionally warm places. energy production and inte- are competing in one of the larg- the lowest-income countries. Palestinian vaccinated for every monoxide poisoning, the dras- Given the ample scientif- grate sustainable infrastructure est battles in history: the race for Despite COVAX’s efforts to 1,000 Israelis. As a compara- tic consequences of the storm ic evidence of the connection through existing power grids. mass coronavirus vaccination. level the playing field, the ini- tively wealthy country, Israel have called into question the between global warming and More important, we need Unfortunately, as with many tiative is not without its flaws. has an obligation to aid Pales- readiness of the U.S. against a unpredictable weather changes to shift reliance on so-called such contests, this one isn’t tak- For instance, Canada still uti- tine in their vaccination effort. raging climate crisis. prior to Winter Storm Uri, why cheap energies like fossil fuels ing place on a level playing field. lized COVAX’s vaccine supply, A report published on Jan- The cascade of failures are states like Texas still so and instead invest in sustain- This race is biased toward the despite being a nation with uary 25 by the International against the storm is not a con- ill-equipped to deal with these able energy systems, despite wealthiest countries, leaving the the 17th highest gross domes- Chamber of Commerce esti- sequence of short-term flaws, kinds of catastrophes? The an- the higher short-term installa- poor with limited access to vac- tic product (GDP). In doing so, mated that the loss in global tion costs. Sustainable energy cine supplies. Canadian Prime Minister Jus- GDP due to unequal access to not only saves money in the Our global vaccine distribution tin Trudeau took vaccines away vaccines is greater than the long run, but also is key to pro- system is riddled with inequities, from poorer countries in more cost of manufacturing and dis- tecting our planet. which are left largely unaddressed precarious positions. tributing vaccines globally. As While the web of variables by wealthy countries who repeat- To achieve worldwide herd long as poorer countries con- that have aligned to produce edly prioritize politics over public immunity, a collective, glob- tribute to international trade Winter Storm Uri is complex, health. Their negligence has not al effort is crucial. This starts and travel, ignoring their inoc- the extreme cold and its devas- only slowed vaccine distribution, with wealthier countries shar- ulation rates will only allow the tating impacts have prompted but it has also withheld vaccines ing their vaccine supply. coronavirus to persist. a mass reckoning of the sever- from developing countries. The complex relationship Ultimately, the main hurdle ity of our climate crisis. One Fortunately, the internation- between Israel and Palestine in the global fight against the hopes that our nation will fi- al community has made some provides another example of coronavirus isn’t about produc- nally wake up from decades of effort to allocate vaccines to the disparity between rich and ing vaccines, but about how to climate change inaction and poorer countries. For example, poor countries’ access to vac- distribute them equitably. fight for a habitable future. Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access cines. As of February 1, Isra- (COVAX), an initiative launched el administered five million Maggie McCabe is a fifth- Renee Jiang is a fifth-former by the World Health Organiza- first doses of the coronavirus former from Broadlands, from Hopkinton, Mass. She may be tion and public-health non-profit vaccine to its citizens and is Va. She may be reached at Photo courtesy of Business Insider reached at [email protected] Gavi, was created to distribute already seeing a drop in infec- [email protected] A sign along Highway 195 in Killeen, Texas. Page 6 || The Choate News Friday, February 26, 2021

One Hundred Years of Memorial House: A History By Begum Gokmen ’23 School and Rosemary Hall mod- demic, dropping both schools’ building was designed by Francus been converted to separate dorm torical artifacts that reflect Staff Reporter ified daily life to support the war morales to all-time lows. E. Walterman and was dedicated rooms — lined with 100 desks its past. The mural above the effort. Boys as young as 15 drilled By the early 1920s, howev- on May 30, 1921. where students sat for study common room fireplace lists When freshmen boys arrive in squads while the rest of cam- er, Choate regained its footing, The large Georgian-Revival hours every night. HPRSS and the names of the 16 Choate stu- at Choate, they move into one pus, including Rosmarians over emerging with a new building in style building mirrored Hill House English teacher and Memorial dents who died in the war. The of the School’s most historic in Greenwich, worked tirelessly plan. With more than 250 stu- across Christian Street, emphasiz- House adviser Mr. Ned Galla- Hatch study, located in the left buildings: Memorial House, to raise funds and volunteer at dents living on campus, Choate ing Choate’s grit and ambition to be gher said, “Memorial House has of the common room, is named affectionately known as Mem. the home front. was in need of a new dormitory, a leading educational institution. always been where the youngest after Edward Hatch, one of The story of Memorial House those young men. traces back to George St. John’s Memorial House advis- arrival to campus as the third ers like Mr. Gallagher find it long-term headmaster of the frustrating how little today’s Choate School in 1908. Upon students know of Memorial a handshake with Choate’s House’s history. “The very first founder, Judge William Gard- night third-formers arrive at ner Choate, St. John began his school, we spend time talking tenure as headmaster over Cho- in a house meeting about the ate’s less than ten acres and 65 name of the building, its histo- boys. Regardless, St. John had ry, and the ethos we aspire to big plans for the School. together.” Mr. Gallagher said. Before World War I, the “But other than that, the histo- Choate School was set on a ry is rarely mentioned.” promising trajectory. Hill The lack of knowledge House had been newly com- about the history of Memorial pleted in 1911, and campus life House is just one aspect of the was finally starting to reflect underlying problem HPRSS St. John’s goals for the School. teacher Mr. Jonas Akins hopes “The reason we can’t do more to address in his course devel- individual work is because the opment grant this summer. school is small,” St. John not- He plans to put together ed in 1908 in his memoir Forty a course that would teach the Years at School. “If Choate were history of not only Memorial larger, there would be enough House, but also the Quinnipiac boys with practically the same land on which the Choate cam- needs to make divisions in each pus sits, the town of Walling- subject suited to each one.” So, ford, Rosemary Hall, and the in hopes to bring greater spe- Choate School. cialization to students, St. John We often forget the histo- helped enrollment numbers in- ry that surrounds us at Choate crease fivefold within his first — more than a hundred years’ ten years at Choate. Soon, the worth of memories established Choate School had gained na- in the very buildings and paths tional recognition. Photos courtesy of the Choate Archives we wander everyday. So, while However, the war marked When the conflict ended one that St. John aspired to fit Once constructed, Memorial boys in the School have lived. In walking around Memorial the beginning of a challenging in 1918, Choate and Rosemary perfectly on campus while rec- House served as Choate’s lower fact, the apartment where I live House next time, take a mo- period for the Choate School. Al- tried to return to a regular ognizing — or memorializing — school where second-formers is the site of the old Refectory, ment to consider its history and though the battlefield seemed far schedule. Still, the death of 16 the fallen alumni. Thus, with the — students at Choate’s lower which was a satellite of the main perhaps even educate a friend. from campus, its impact reached Choate alumni had bequeathed financial support of 436 alumni school — lived, ate, and studied. dining hall.” close to home. Linked under a grief on campus. Crisis soon and parents, the construction It contained a large room in the Memorial House has re- Begum Gokmen may be reached common cause, both the Choate followed with the first flu pan- of Memorial House began. The north wing — which has long tained some impressive his- at [email protected]

Fill in the Blank for a Wacky Winter Term By Cassatt Boatwright ’24 soon became a meme. However, our rooms. My roommate and I perfect time to stay in the com- Thankfully, students pulled were ______(adjective). Student Staff Reporter I was excited to be back on cam- ______(verb, past tense) togeth- mon room for a movie night and together to fight Covid-19 trans- council elections also happened, pus in the winter term! To wel- er for hours. drink _____ (noun) while eating mission, and there have been with _____ (person’s name) and This has been a crazy winter come new boarders, my friends The snow this year was ______(noun). Eventually, loosened restrictions. We can ______(person’s name) running! term! First, we were online, and and I invited them out to _____ (adjective)! There were many in-person classes started again now go into each other’s ______I voted for both of them. my schedule was _____ (adjec- (verb). I saw all of my old friends ____ (adjective) Instagram after the ____ (adjective) quar- (place, plural)! Of course, we Overall, winter term is tive). I couldn’t believe that I had that I had missed, and I also met posts and lots of slips and falls. antine. Walking in the ______still wear______(noun, plural) looking pretty _____ (adjec- ______(course name) class at 5 some _____ (adjective) new ones. My friend even lost her _____ (noun) was a pain, but we made do. around our dorms and outside. tive) so far! am! The Inauguration also hap- So, I guess the ______(adjec- (noun) in the snow — it was in- I saw some kids out in ____ (item Remember, stay _____ (number) pened, which was really interest- tive) quarantine food was worth sane! My friends and I built a of clothing, plural) and _____ feet apart! With more options in Cassatt Boatwright ing to watch. I loved ______’s it. We went on a lot of walks ______(noun) outside of _____ (item of clothing, plural) which was the dining hall and the ability to may be reached at (celebrity) outfit, and of course, it and ______(verb, past tense) in (dorm name), too. Winter is the shocking! In this weather? order food again, I think students [email protected]

CREATING AN EQUITABLE AND INCLUSIVE CHOATE By Adrienne Chacón ’22 Strategic Plan. The 2016 retreat elections; increased mental, emo- Associate Editor included committees focused on tional, and spiritual support; and interrogating diversity and in- helping lead the Choate commu- As an institution and com- clusion within the curriculum. nity towards anti-racist teaching munity, Choate prides itself on Among other new initiatives, a and socialization.” being an equitable and inclusive faculty mentorship program was Community Conversations, “place of many paths.” Since the created to familiarize new teach- one of Dr. Myers’ first initia- resurgence of the Black Lives ers with the School’s culture and tives, have encouraged anti-bias Matter movement, Choate has inclusion goals. socialization and encouraged become even more dedicated Acknowledging the need for empathy. “As a new member of to its promise of equity and in- anti-bias measures, the Diversity this community in a pandemic clusion. The Diversity, Equity, Education Committee (DEC) and scenario, the Community Con- and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force, Associate Head of School Ms. Kath- versations have really helped Community Conversations, Bias leen Wallace hired the first Director me connect with people,” she Incident Reporting Form, and of Equity and Inclusion (E&I), Dr. said. Dr. Myers believes that the more rigorous Diversity Day Keith Hinderlie in 2016. The DEC program has helped the rest of programming were spurred on created this senior administrative the community connect, too. by the social reckonings that position in hopes of formulating “I [have] gotten feedback from 2020 brought. These inclusion a more inclusive curriculum, ad- students, faculty, and staff ex- initiatives are built upon the ad- dressing diversity on campus, and pressing enjoyment, learning, vances and setbacks that Choate ensuring that the School’s commit- and increased dialogue between has experienced throughout its ment to equity endured. adults and students.” history. In the past six years, At the end of the 2020 school Dr. Myers also leads the new however, Choate has made note- year, Dr. Rachel Myers filled the Equity and Inclusion team, which worthy progress. vacancy created by Dr. Hinderlie, incorporates individuals from In 2016, there was an insti- who cited a change in Choate cul- many academic and administra- tution-wide push to improve ture as the reason for his depar- tive departments. The office, es- diversity, equity, and inclusion ture. “When I first came to Choate, tablished last summer, supports Graphic by Yuko Tanaka/The Choate News in all facets of the community. the School was looking at other a wide range of organizations and As Director of Equity and Likewise, Mr. Filipe Cama- Furthermore, Mr. Cama- Student Council voting began in- schools to figure out how to be a events, including the Pathways Inclusion, Dr. Myers also plans rotti, who is the associate direc- rotti hopes that Choate contin- cluding underformers, and there more inclusive community. With- Program, Diversity Day, Commu- to address, on a year-by-year tor of equity and inclusion, said, ues to educate its students on was increased transparency in in that four years, Choate has be- nity Conversations, Community basis, the areas where diversity “My dream is for the School to identity. Whether it be through the Student Council’s bill-passing come a school where other schools Service, Spiritual Life, and the education and training are most be at a point where every single scheduled programming or process. Additionally, the admin- look at us,” Dr. Hinderlie told The Driving Equity at Choate (DEC). In needed — thus, chipping away at individual and department’s individual learning, he hopes istration started the first curricu- Choate News in May 2020. addition, they also support student her ongoing mission to ingrain first thought is, ‘Is what we’re that students leave Choate lum review retreat, an intensive Building on the foundation clubs, help students attend confer- diversity, equity, and inclusion doing equitable and just?’ A with the knowledge and desire workshop in which different as- laid by Dr. Hinderlie, Dr. Myers ences, provide professional devel- into every facet of life at Choate. society, system, or institution to “transform” systems of op- pects of academic life, such as di- hit the ground running. “I came opment for staff and faculty, run “Fingers crossed that it will even- benefits from individuals and pression and exclusion. ploma requirements and course up with three areas of focus for the Icahn & Gakio Walton Schol- tually become an embedded part groups who center the collec- offerings, were reexamined for this school year: preparing the ars program, and coordinate with of the Choate experience and cul- tive need for equity, inclusion, Adrienne Chacón may be reached their relevance to the 2013 Choate community for the presidential Community-Based Organizations. ture,” she said. and justice.” at [email protected] Friday, February 26, 2021 The Choate News || Page 7 Visual Arts Concentration Seniors Showcase Portfolios By Reagan Bajus ’22 Reporter

This fall, seniors in the Visual Arts Concentration program completed portfolios as part of their Advanced Studio Art Port- folio class. This required course teaches students how to compile portfolios, a necessary skill for artists’ college and job applications. Each of the three sixth-form artists’ strengths in different mediums — Stella Dubin ’21 in oil paints, Senching Hsia ’21 in acrylic and gouache, and HP Park ’21 in 3D models and animations — were demonstrated in their diverse portfolios. The pieces from Dubin, Hsia, and Park’s portfolios, as well as more of their works, will be featured in their Senior Art Show exhi- bition in the spring term.

Senching Hsia ’21

Hsia’s portfolio featured paintings on wildlife and the natural environment. Her work is surprising in its composition of animals — in her painting of a fish, for example, Hsia portrays the aquatic HP Park ’21 animal with avian wings consisting of various feather patterns. In another piece, Hsia depicts a tiger with the features of a lion, In contrast to Dubin and Hsia, Park chose to work with non- leopard, bison, and okapi (also known as forest giraffes). traditional art mediums in his portfolio. Even though one of Park’s Combining her love of art and science, Hsia was inspired by pieces was also influenced by tigers, Park’s “tiger” uses zoomor- her animal subjects both in an artistic and environmental sense. phism to combine the features of a train and a tiger, creating a sleek Through her art, Hsia hopes to spread appreciation for nature. vehicle with resemblances to the wild animal’s color pattern and To her, pieces rooted in nature are doubly powerful, acting as jaw shape. Park looked to industrial and technological aspects of Stella Dubin ’21 both a literal rendering of the subject itself and as an inspira- human society for inspiration; the train and station feature deco tional piece of artwork. Hsia said, “There’s the underlying mes- influence paired with a hypermodern, metallic, and angular style, Dubin’s portfolio consists mostly of oil paint portraits. Her fa- sage that there is something to lose because of climate change giving his work a futuristic feel. vorite piece — a portrait of a woman in front of scarlet curtains and global warming. There is the potential to lose this source of Because Park primarily works with 3D digital modeling and an- whose face is framed by vividly-colored roses — was painted in beauty and inspiration.” imation, he designed the train as a part of his upcoming short film Spain during a summer abroad in 2019. In La Coruña, Dubin at- “Momentum.” Originating from Park’s goal of challenging himself tended a rigorous visual art workshop that spanned from eight in to design a locomotive, the film discusses the growth of artificial in- the morning to six at night for five consecutive days, and this paint- telligence and the fear of robots replacing the workforce. He hopes ing was one of many culminations of her efforts. that “Momentum” will show an alternate future universe in which “It was the first time that I had done something from a model man can coexist with machine. that I made creative decisions with,” Dubin said. “With a model, “The direction of the film is not to antagonize these robots, but you kind of just draw what they’re doing. You draw a full body, and more so teaching people how we should find solutions to address you don’t think about composition, so this was the first time I tried these problems,” Park said. After all, he explained, robots were de- something outside of that.” signed to solve problems. In his film, Park hopes to convey that Another piece in her collection features an indignant woman just because robots also created new problems doesn’t mean they with a disorderly background marked by holes pierced in the pa- should be wholly rejected. per. This crayon and oil pastels piece was inspired by “The Yellow “By the end, no one antagonizes each other, but rather the hu- Wallpaper,” a short story exploring women’s mental health in the man workforce and the robotic workforce find better solutions to 18th century. Dubin read the piece for her American Studies class coexist.” He added, “It’s a film that addresses the problems and last year, and the protagonist’s anger and passion affected her pro- hopes of a not-so-distant future.” foundly. The emotions she felt manifested themselves in furious strokes and the destruction of the paper canvas. Reagan Bajus may be reached at [email protected] From left to right columns: art by Stella Dubin ’21, Senching Hsia ’21, HP Park ’21

LOST Student Organization iloveme Battles By Rebecca Alston ’22 Appearance-Related Anxiety By Angel Guo ’22 fects of beauty advertisement on “Our investigation demonstrat- iloveme’s founding members Deep toned I enter Associate Editor teenage girls, as well as an art ed that beauty advertisements have decided on visual art as the most Hyper aware, used to observing and acknowledging identities exhibition showcasing the pres- severe influences on teenage girls’ suitable medium for conveying around “You have a long face. Your sure that teenage girls undergo. perception of themselves, and this their message. “Since appear- I think I feel safe enough here eyes are small. Have you ever con- Their online research surveys distorted standard of beauty — ance anxiety is amorphous in sidered losing weight? Your legs and informal street polls conduct- pale, skinny, and young — caused the sense that it is not specifical- Fair toned he saunters are as thick as elephants’” — the ed in winter 2020 in Beijing sam- most girls to feel insecure about ly defined, we felt that art would eye contact made list goes on. Many people have pled approximately 200 teen girls their appearance,” said Jiang. be a good way to express this I recall our previous encounter heard these types of comments, and revealed that only 6% of teen- After collecting evidence on topic as it can depict anything how he said he grew from others or from themselves. age girls are satisfied with their this topic, the organizers created the artist or the audience per- Although body image is a strug- physical appearance, 81% would an exhibition highlighting appear- ceives,” said Liao. “What’s it like to wear the glasses?” I ask earnestly. gle for many of us, the pressure to purchase beauty products because ance anxiety in hopes of spreading In addition to raising aware- “what glasses?” he responds bewildered. meet beauty standards is unparal- of advertising, and 70% have con- the message that girls should not ness, the organizers hope to advo- “The ones you had on for months… leled for teenage girls in particular. sidered receiving plastic surgery be pressured to meet a specific cate for healthy eating habits and Mr. Floyd, Mr. Arbery, Ms. Taylor?” Recognizing this issue, Lisa after comparing themselves to the set of beauty standards. They col- increased representation of body countless others. Ji ’22, Victoria Jiang ’22, Linsey societal beauty standards. laborated with two Beijing-based shapes and colors in advertise- “oh yes, a shame.” Liao ’22, and Summer Xu ’22 “As teenage girls spend an teenage artists, Dora Lin and John ments. “We hope that people can “Where are the glasses now?” founded iloveme, an organiza- increasing amount of time on on- Sa. Lin has suffered from eating stop craving the same beauty stan- “i think i misplaced them.” tion that hopes to raise aware- line platforms, they are becoming disorders for the past three years, dard, but it is really hard to stop a “Are they not too valuable to lose?” ness of appearance anxiety more and more susceptible to un- while Sa has witnessed his friends culture immediately,” said Ji. “they were. among teens. Their project is healthy ads, which promote ide- struggle with appearance-relaed but i grew tired of them. they irritate my face.” composed of a research paper alistic beauty standards that are anxiety and felt an urge to advo- Angel Guo may be reached investigating the negative ef- unattainable,” said Liao. cate for change. at [email protected] Process. Only when unable to ignore does he put them on; when a slain black body infiltrates every aspect of his life

“I wonder what that’s like,” I murmur meanwhile I know. My glasses are sown to my face rooted in melanin, beauty, and generational trauma That body is my mom, my dad, my uncle, my aunt, my ancestor angels above

but you grew tired so the world keeps chugging and shrugging crossing fingers and accepting fleeting wins as permanent solutions “I hope you find your glasses!” Photos courtesy of iloveme Two pieces — taking it off and jealousy — exhibited at the gallery hosted by iloveme, and a visitor applying crimson-red makeup to a bust of David. The Choate News

Vol. CXIV • No. viii Friday, February 26, 2021

COACH PROFILE A Rocky Winter Season On The Sidelines With J.D. for Choate’s Climbers By Naomi Fleisch ’22 athletes and from other coach- NF: What is the best advice Staff Reporter es. Also, you have to be adapt- you have for Choate athletes? able — no two seasons are alike. JD: Don’t narrow your focus Mr. Jim Davidson, com- Lastly, try and meet people to one sport or just your suc- monly known as JD, is a HPRSS where they are — help them cess. See what you can get out of teacher well known for his com- figure out their strengths and working with a variety of sports mitments outside of the class- weaknesses and what they can and the challenges they bring. room, namely as a coach for do to grow. Your chances to engage in team numerous sports teams. Mr. NF: What is the most reward- sports will only diminish after Davidson started coaching Boys’ ing part of being a coach? high school. Thirds Basketball in the winter JD: The ongoing challenge NF: What is something that of 1976, when he was in grad- of working with student athletes. you think everybody can learn uate school. During his career, No two are the same and no one from playing a sport? Mr. Davidson has coached the is the same from season to sea- JD: Something that every- cross country teams in the fall, son. Also, the honest feedback body can learn from playing a various levels of boys’ and girls’ from the athletes helps to keep sport is persistence and physical basketball in the winter, and me honest and growing. well-being. boys’ and girls’ track and field NF: What does being a coach NF: How does being a in the spring. Over the years, teach you about teamwork and coach allow you to mentor stu- he has coached more than 100 communication? dents in a different way from seasons at Choate. In 2015, Mr. JD: Being a coach teaches being a teacher? Davidson was presented with me about working with others – JD: Athletes are willing to the Nadal Award, which honors figuring out how to be successful learn, receive constructive criti- a Founders League coach who in a shared activity or in achiev- cism, and process their mistakes exemplifies sportsmanship and ing a goal is all the more crucial more readily — an attitude I respect. Staff Reporter Naomi today. We are too focused on hope they can carry into other

Photo courtesy of Choate Flickr Fleisch ’22 recently sat down individual accomplishments; it parts of their lives. I often think Choate students scale a rock wall in the Macquire gym. with him to learn more about his is more fulfilling in the long run of a quote I heard when I started conditioned for their spring er. Resorting to hang-board experience coaching at Choate. to work together to make each playing basketball [from the late By Sam Anastasio ’23 sport,” said Mr. Oliver. exercises that train fingers and Naomi Fleisch: What is other better. UCLA basketball coach John Staff Reporter Although many of the stu- arms, Walker has struggled to something that you have learned NF: What is your favorite Wooden]: “Things turn out best dents are first-timers at the find consistency with exercises from being a coach at Choate? part about athletics at Choate? for the people who make the In December, the Cho- sport, some students, such as now that he is back on campus. How has it helped you in other JD: My favorite part about best of the way things turn out.” ate Athletic Department an- Calvin Walker ’21, have be- Mr. Oliver, who uses rock aspects of your life? athletics at Choate is that it is nounced that all students that come fond of rock climbing. climbing as a meditative prac- Jim Davidson: You can built for every student to find a Naomi Fleisch may be reached were planning to play an intra- Walker said, “I started climb- tice, said, “For me personally, never stop learning, from the sport or level they can work in. at [email protected] mural sport would be enrolled ing at Choate my sophomore climbing is a very important in “Physical Wellness” instead. year and fell in love instantly.” activity for me to stay winter Among other restrictions, the Usually, Choate gives Walker positive. So, emotionally, the School limited occupancy in and other rock climbers access lack of routine physical activity the fitness center to a maxi- to use the Prime Club whenev- has taken a toll.” mum of 14 people. One of the er they choose, but since the Students often find winter sports affected by this change pandemic began, he has not term difficult, and not having was Rock Climbing. been able to go. practices has made it harder Normally, Rock Climb- In previous years, students for many athletes. ing leader Mr. Jeremy Oliver have also been able to use While the Founders League brings the cohort of students the climbing wall in McGuire season and all official interscho- to Prime Club, a Wallingford Gym, but that spot is no longer lastic tournaments have been climbing gym, where students maintained, leaving students canceled for the spring, as of climb for two hours on Mon- with no replacement activity now, the Athletic Department days and Wednesdays. How- for rock climbing at all. hopes that improved Covid-19 ever, because the Prime Club Without access to a climb- conditions will allow student is closed, and students are not ing wall, Walker has had a athletes to travel off-campus allowed off campus, the group difficult time keeping up with next term for sports such as has not been able to practice. his training and conditioning. crew and golf, and potential- “A lot of the students who “Rock climbing is a sport where ly participate in scrimmages participate in rock climb- you need consistent practice to against other schools. ing are just trying it for the push your limits and improve, first time or using it as a mild so it’s definitely been a frus- Sam Anastasio may be reached Photo courtesy of Choate Flickr cross-training activity to stay trating experience,” said Walk- at [email protected] JD coaching cross country in the fall.

Athletes Reflect on a Winter Season that Wasn’t

By Bo Goergen ’22 to be in the last couple years. Staff Reporter Even with Covid-19 restrictions set by the School, we are allowed Since last spring, the pan- to have multiple swimmers in the demic has severely hindered Cho- pool at the same time, and it’s ate athletes’ ability to compete. hard not to get competitive when This winter has been no different. you see these swimmers to your When reflecting on the win- right and left.” ter athletic season, Boys’ Var- Like swimming, more sports sity Hockey player Bauer Swift are now able to simulate game- ’21 said, “I miss the competition like situations after the School of playing games. I was really reduced indoor distancing lim- looking forward to getting out on its from 12 to six feet. With just the ice and competing with my two weeks left in the winter sea- teammates, but Covid-19 messed son, this new adaptation partic- everything up.” ularly affected squash, as two Swift is not alone in his disap- squash players can now be on pointment. Girls’ Varsity Squash the same court at a time, rather player Blake Bertero ’22 added, than just one. “It is really difficult to truly enjoy According to Boys’ Varsity and work hard in practice because Squash player Hugo Chung ’22, we have no games. However, I the team’s practices have been think our team is trying our best transformed by this change. He to really give it our all and buy in.” said, “we have been able to sort Without competitions to pre- of simulate real games by play- pare for, many athletes are strug- ing competitive drills against a gling to find motivation for prac- teammate, and these matches ticing, but Bertero has made an always get the competitive juic- effort to remain dedicated. es flowing.” On top of the loss of compe- All sports have been affect- tition, every team has had to ad- Graphic by Yujin Kim/The Choate News ed by Covid-19 in degrees vary- just to masks and physical-dis- been difficult to play due to Stern’s sentiments. He said, masks does not help with this. nature of the sport, social dis- ing by the nature of the sport; tancing requirements. When the School’s Covid-19 policies. “Our coaching staff is working I use a cloth mask during prac- tancing isn’t an issue. Choate however, no matter what sport asked to describe practices, Stern added, “Basketball can- hard to try and make practice tice, and there is a very notice- swimmers can time themselves an athlete participates in, Cho- Girls’ Varsity Basketball play- not be played without real de- as helpful as possible, but it is able difference between wear- and compare their times with ate teams have expressed their er Sarah Stern ’21 said, “Prac- fense and, therefore, we are not especially hard with the six-feet ing one and not.” teammates, or even swimmers excitement over the possibili- tice is nothing like it was last getting any real, in-game expe- rule because we are not improv- One sport that has been able from across the country, to see ty of competing against other year. The masks make it hard to rience.” Stern believes the team ing on our in-game skills.” Mo- to simulate competitive envi- how they stack up. schools once again — maybe as breathe, and we have to split up needs game time in order to im- bley also commented on the dif- ronments is Boys’ and Girls’ Girls’ Varsity swimmer Mar- early as the spring term. and distance ourselves.” prove and bond. ficulty of some of the Covid-19 Swimming. Swimmers do not tha Chessen ’22 said, “Swim Basketball, which involves Boys’ Varsity Basketball policies: “Basketball is a high have to wear masks in the water, practice actually does not feel Bo Goergen may be reached frequent close contact has player Tyson Mobley ’23 echoed intensity sport and wearing and because of the individual that different from what it used at [email protected]